New York Mets Rumors: Alderson Says Michael Bourn Can Change Complexion of Team

New York Mets starting pitcher Johan Santana (R) passes Atlanta Braves batter Michael Bourn (L) after he got him to make the final out with the bases loaded in the fifth inning of their MLB National League opening day baseball game at CitiField in New York April 5, 2012."

The New York Mets are not expected to compete in 2013 after emptying out the roster and continuing to make space in their payroll. However, rumors of signing Michael Bourn are in full force. Though he might come at a hefty price, Bourn a player Alderson thinks can make a difference.

Bourn is a Scott Boras client, meaning he wants to get payed, but after spending the entire season on the market since he declined the Atlanta Braves' offer, his price has steeply declined.

Of course, for a team like the Mets who focused on releasing players and keeping David Wright this offseason, if they can get a great price on Bourn, they will jump on that train. However, what they fear more than having to pay Bourn is losing their 11th pick in the 2013 MLB Draft.

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The Mets could stop thinking about the future if they can land Bourn. They have plenty of young talent working its way up in the minors, which could make the Mets contenders in the years following.

"If you look at the fundamental composition of our team, it wouldn't take more than a couple of moves to change the whole perception of things," said Alderson.

The Mets play in one of the toughest divisions excluding the A.L. West and A.L. East. Though the Philadelphia Phillies struggled in 2012, though old, they come into 2013 with a healthy roster of sluggers and new additions. The Atlanta Braves might challenge the Washington Nationals after adding the Upton Brothers over the break and the Nationals, though they traded Michael Morse, still have deadly starting pitching and a pretty decent batting lineup.

The Mets used the face of their franchise, David Wright, as bait in their attempt to sign Bourn. Wright doesn't mind talking to free agents as long as it's for the good of the team.

Wright and Bourn exchanged texts and this is what the Mets' third baseman had to say. "I just wanted to let him know that he would be a great addition here and he'd obviously be welcomed here,'' Wright said.

Bourn dined with the Mets as the team recently as the continue to pursue the outfielder to join forces with the royal blue pinstripes. He is currently the top free agent on the market.